Question

Once the resident removes the hair from the surgical incision, the disposable clipper blade from the electrical razor should be:

a) disposed of in the clear trash
b) disposed of in the sharps box
c) left on the electrical clipper handle for the next case
d) disposed of in the red trash

Answer 1

The correct disposal for a used disposable clipper blade from an electrical razor after removing hair from a surgical site is in the sharps box.

Step-by-step explanation:

Once the resident removes the hair from the surgical incision, the disposable clipper blade from the electrical razor should be disposed of in the sharps box. Disposable clipper blades are considered potential sharp hazards and biomedical waste, and for infection control and safety reasons, they must be handled accordingly. The clipper blade has been exposed to potentially infectious material and poses a puncture risk, thus it belongs in the sharps disposal container. After use, the blade should be carefully detached from the clipper handle—without touching the blade directly if possible—to minimize the risk of accidental injury or contamination.